Fire Department celebrates service to community

The Port Jervis Fire Department's annual banquet brought members of the all-volunteer department to celebrate its members' continued dedication and service to the community.

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By Sharon E. Siegel

recordonline.com

By Sharon E. Siegel

Posted Nov. 23, 2012 at 2:00 AM
Updated Nov 26, 2012 at 3:30 PM

By Sharon E. Siegel

Posted Nov. 23, 2012 at 2:00 AM
Updated Nov 26, 2012 at 3:30 PM

» Social News

The Port Jervis Fire Department's annual banquet brought members of the all-volunteer department to celebrate its members' continued dedication and service to the community.

PJFD Chief Jeff Rhoades, along with other departmental and company officers and invited dignitaries, also applauded the overall longtime service of the department's volunteers.

The banquet was held Nov. 10 at the Erie Trackside Manor. Rhoades noted that the annual event is a time to show appreciation for the sacrifices made by volunteer firefighters to respond not only to emergency situations but also for extensive training required throughout each year.

"I thank each of you, and I thank your families for the time you give and the time they lose with you each year," Rhoades said. "I'm not sure people really understand just how much time this takes, and time spent away from important family events at times. We appreciate all you do."

Mayor Russell Potter, a past chief in the department, shared his personal appreciation for a response to a minor fire that occurred recently in his family.

"I have always known what goes into being a firefighter and the time and skill it takes, but when it happens to you, you really appreciate and understand it even more," Potter said. "On behalf of the City of Port Jervis and myself personally, thank you for what you do."

Orange County Legislator Dennis Simmons, a firefighter himself, was also hand to express his gratitude to the department and its members.

Three members were presented with 50-year membership certificates, and the spouses of department officers were each given a gift of appreciation for their support of the extra time and efforts given by the officers to the department.

A photo slide show presentation recapped the many fires, drills, and other responses that occurred over the past year.

"It was a very busy year," Rhoades said. "We really do appreciate all it takes to be a volunteer in the department."